The QX80 is a full-featured luxury vehicle, and it comes in two very well-equipped trims, with the only other major choice being between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Both versions come with a strong 5.6L V8 engine, employing variable valve timing and lift, as well as direct injection, for a total of 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque.

In either model, the V8 delivers quick, confident performance, through a 7-speed automatic transmission that has Adaptive Shift Control as well as a manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Matching. The available all-wheel-drive system is one that is more road-oriented, with 4H and 4L (high and low) ranges, and it can send up to 50 percent of power to the front wheels when needed for better traction. Hill Start Assist, which helps preserve stability on slippery slopes, is included. All models have huge 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and Brake Assist. Along with electronic stability control there's a 4-wheel Active Brake Limited-Slip system.

The QX80 has a body-on-frame design, which makes it great for towing (up to 8,500 pounds), yet its independent double-wishbone suspension affords a better ride and more responsive handling than other large SUVs of its type. Some of its responsiveness and comfort are due to its Dual-Flow Path twin-tube shocks, engine speed-sensitive power steering and automatic leveling system. Add the Deluxe Touring Package and a special Hydraulic Body Motion Control system uses cross-linked chambers to help reduce body lean in corners and improve comfort.

Three rows of seating allow comfortable seating for up to seven in the QX80, and with the available 60/40-split folding bench in the second row, capacity goes up to eight. All QX80 models include power heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, Intelligent Key, Bluetooth and push-button ignition and an available 8-inch wide-format touch screen and controller allow access to the available navigation system with NavTraffic, Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather and Zagat restaurant data.

A Moving Object Detection system (MOD) is also included, and it incorporates an Around View Monitor that uses four super wide-angle cameras and can display the view 360 degrees around. The Technology Package includes Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Brake Assist, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW). A Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) is also on offer.

Entertainment is provided by an excellent 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system that also includes a USB port, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth streaming audio and an iPod interface. A Theater Package brings two 7-inch screens for rear-seat passengers, including two pairs of wireless headphones, a remote, a 120-volt power outlet and auxiliary inputs.

A Signature Edition adds to the already-ample features list with high-contrast saddle tan interior and all the goodies from the Driver Assistance Package (backup collision intervention, intelligent cruise control, blind-spot warning) and Split Bench Package, which increases seating capacity from seven to eight passengers.